Microencapsulated Schwann cell transplantation inhibits P2X2/3 receptors overexpression in a sciatic nerve injury rat model with neuropathic pain

Publication date: 29 May 2018 Source:Neuroscience Letters, Volume 676 Author(s): Ya-ling Zhang, Yi-guo Liu, De-jian Chen, Bao-lin Yang, Tao-tao Liu, Jia-juan Li, Xiu-qi Wang, Hao-tian (Rose) Li, Zeng-xu Liu Transplantation of Schwann cells (SCs) can promote axonal regeneration and formation of the myelin sheath, reduce inflammation, and promote repair to the damaged nerve. Our previous studies have shown that transplantation of free or micro-encapsulated olfactory ensheathing cells can relieve neuropathic pain. There are no related reports regarding whether the transplantation of micro-encapsulated SCs can alleviate neuropathic pain mediated by P2X2/3 receptors. In the present study, we micro-encapsulated SCs in alginic acid and transplanted them into the region surrounding the injured sciatic nerve in the rat model of chronic constriction injury (CCI). The mechanical withdrawal threshold and thermal withdrawal latency were measured to assess changes in behavior 14 days after the surgery in CCI model rats. Ultrastructural changes in the injured sciatic nerve were assessed using transmission electron microscopy. Co-expression of P2X2/3 receptors with other markers in neurons in the L4-5 dorsal root ganglia (DRG) were assessed using double-label immunofluorescence 14 days after surgery. We determined P2X2/3 mRNA expression and protein level changes in the DRG using quantitative real-time polymerase change reaction technology and Western blotting analysis. We have...
Source: Neuroscience Letters - Category: Neuroscience Source Type: research